2004 Dodge Durango SLT Road Test

Dodge Builds a Dependable Traveling Companion

Completely redesigned for 2004 and heading into 2005 virtually unchanged, the Dodge Durango is a mid-to-full size SUV permeated

A family vacation was the perfect opportunity to test out the redesigned 2004 Dodge Durango. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

with comfort and practicality, not to mention style and performance.

I had the good fortune recently to embark upon a family vacation - road trip - in a 2004 Durango. The excursion led us from the coastal metropolis we inhabit to an inland resort town situated in a desert climate between the shores of two emerald green lakes.

I picked up the Durango the day preceding our departure. Not having previously had an opportunity to pore over the makings of the

Chrysler Group's smooth running 4.7-liter SOHC V8 is neatly tucked under the Durango's sculpted hood. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

reincarnated machine, I was keen to do so. Although I had read a tremendous amount about Dodge's new SUV, and admired its new form at a recent auto show, nothing beats putting such a beast in one's own garage and getting to work like a physician performing a full medical on new patient. Trading the stethoscope for a note pad and pencil, I began my examination of the iron horse.

As if checking its heart rate, I went first to the nicely sculpted hood and had a look underneath. Although I didn't find the heart of a lion in the way of Chrysler's new 5.7-liter (345 cu-in) HEMI V8, I did find a heart full of life and vigor in the form of Chrysler's smooth running 4.7-liter (287 cu-in) SOHC V8.